New Orleans Saints wide receiver Chris Olave continues to consider wearing a Guardian Cap after suffering multiple concussions during his career. Following a head injury in Week 6, Olave shared that he’s still evaluating his options for added protection on game days.
“I’m still considering it. I was considering last game, ended up going with the regular helmet,” Olave told ESPN’s Katherine Terrell.
Guardian Caps, which attach over helmets, aim to lessen the force of impacts and lower the risk of head injuries. While NFL mandates Guardian Caps during practice for certain positions, players have the option to choose between the cap or a standard helmet during games. De’Von Achane and James Daniels are among those who have opted for Guardian Caps this season.
Olave has missed several games over his three seasons due to concussions, with his first recorded instance in Week 5 of his rookie year, which forced him to sit out the following game. He also missed a matchup with the Atlanta Falcons due to a head injury.
Most recently, Olave left the field after a hit against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this season, undergoing team evaluation and heading to the locker room. The Ohio State alumnus was cleared to return during a later game against the Los Angeles Chargers after briefly being evaluated for a concussion, finishing with eight catches for 107 yards.
“I was good, man,” Olave said. “I know every big hit they kind of check for concussions and stuff, especially with my history. I was good when I got up, though, so I knew I was going to be able to go back in.”
Heading into the upcoming game against the Carolina Panthers, Olave leads the Saints’ receiving corps with 387 yards on 31 catches, along with one touchdown. Additionally, the Saints are set to see the return of quarterback Derek Carr, who missed the past three games due to an oblique injury.
